Employing Empathy: Unlocking America’s Potential through Criminal Justice Reform

The passage of the First Step Act in 2018, driven by bipartisan cooperation, marked a significant milestone in criminal justice reform. Texas, a state with a large inmate population, is implementing innovative incarceration alternatives that have not only reduced crime but also saved billions of taxpayer dollars. This progress signifies a shifting tide in America’s prison policies.

Unemployment rates among the formerly incarcerated and high recidivism rates can be attributed to the obstacles faced by individuals returning from incarceration, such as restricted access to jobs, housing, and education. These factors are overlooked and underestimated as solutions to address these challenges. By addressing unemployment and reducing recidivism, the cycle of poverty can be broken, benefiting both individuals and society.

Check out this Forbes article written by our founder Kevin Gay for more information: How Employing Empathy Toward The Formerly Incarcerated Can Improve The Bottom Lin